When were they introduced?

Grammar schools date back to as early as the 16th century, but the modern concept was created by the 1944 Education Act.

They were one of three types of school forming the Tripartite System, the others being the secondary technical school and the secondary modern.

Grammars were intended to teach the most academically able 25% of students as selected by the 11-plus exam.

The Tripartite System was largely abolished in England and Wales between 1965 and 1976, with many grammar schools converting to comprehensives or independent schools.

Only a handful of local authorities in England kept a largely selective schools system, while in other places, a few grammar schools survived in an otherwise fully comprehensive system.

What do critics say?

Critics claim the system effectively results in a divide between children from wealthier backgrounds destined for university and good jobs, and children from working-class backgrounds destined for less lucrative roles.

Those against grammar schools argue that they have an adverse effect on late developers who are denied the chance to reach their full potential because of failing in an exam at the age of 11.

What do supporters say?

Supporters argue that selective schools produce some of the best performances in exams of any schools.

They also argue that grammar schools provide a chance for bright students from poorer backgrounds to get a higher standard of education without having to pay school fees.